BlenderLinux
vs
Paint 3DWindows
Blender as a Linux alternative to Paint 3D
Updated
Our verdict
Blender is a valid but overpowered replacement for Paint 3D. It handles all 3D modeling and 2D drawing needs, but the interface is complex for non-technical users. If you only need quick sketches or simple 3D shapes, Blender feels like using a crane to hang a picture. It is best for users willing to learn a professional tool; for casual users, it may be too steep a learning curve compared to Paint 3D’s simplicity.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 5.2 (July 14, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports 2D raster drawing with brushes and shapes
- Capable of creating and editing basic 3D objects
- Exports to common image formats like PNG and JPEG
- Exports 3D models to STL and OBJ formats
- Free and available on Linux
What is different
- Lacks a simplified 'Paint' mode; UI is complex for beginners
- No direct equivalent to Paint 3D's simple layer stack for 2D raster images (uses nodes or separate images)
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Overkill for simple tasks like drawing a stick figure
- Requires more system resources to run
Opening your Paint 3D files
Blender does not natively open Paint 3D’s .3MF files directly as a primary workflow, but you can import STL or OBJ files exported from Paint 3D. For 2D images, Blender can open PNG and JPEG files directly. If you have .3MF files, export them to STL in Paint 3D first, then import into Blender. Blender cannot edit the original .3MF structure, only the geometry.
Switching from Paint 3D to Blender, step by step
- Install Blender via your package manager or Flathub
- Export any existing Paint 3D 3D models as STL or OBJ
- Import those files into Blender’s 3D viewport
- For 2D work, use the Grease Pencil workspace or import PNGs
- Learn the basic navigation keys (Middle Mouse to orbit, Scroll to zoom)
- Save your work as .blend files to preserve 3D data
Key features of Blender
- Full 3D modeling and digital sculpting
- Node-based compositing and material editing
- Integrated motion tracking and camera solving
- Physics simulations (fluids, cloth, particles)
- 2D animation and grease pencil tools
- Cycles and Eevee render engines
- Video editing and color grading
- Python scripting and add-on support
How to install Blender on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.blender.Blendersudo apt install blendersudo apt install blendersudo dnf install blendersudo pacman -S blendersudo zypper install blender-4.5Frequently asked questions
Is Blender too hard for a beginner?
Yes, for simple tasks. The interface is dense. If you only draw flat pictures, GIMP or Krita are better. If you need 3D, Blender is the standard, but expect a learning curve.
Can I do simple 2D drawing in Blender?
Yes, using Grease Pencil. It’s powerful but not as intuitive as Paint 3D’s brush palette. It’s better for animation than static sketches.
Does Blender replace Paint 3D’s 3D features?
Yes, and far exceeds them. Blender’s modeling tools are professional-grade. You can do everything Paint 3D does, plus much more, but it’s not 'point-and-click' simple.
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